Tickets & fares

Snapper fares

Using Snapper

Snapper is the stored value card for Metlink buses and trains. Any concession you have loaded on your Snapper card will work automatically, and you will be charged the discounted fare determined by your concession. Off-peak discount automatically applies on eligible services when using Snapper. 

Snapper App

The Snapper app is used for your personal Snapper account management and top-ups. It can't be used to tag on or off Metlink services, you will still need a Snapper card. 

Other Payment Options

Single cash tickets and Metlink Explorer Day passes can be purchased on board buses and trains. Metlink trains and buses (except Airport Express) do not accept EFTPOS or credit cards, can't do contactless or mobile device tag-ons, and there are no ticket vending machines. You can pay for your ferry trip with your EFTPOS card , credit card or debit card on board the vessel or at Queens Wharf on an EFTPOS machine. Snapper cards and cash are not accepted. 

Cash fares

Fares for special services

The Airport Express, Metlink OnDemand, and Wellington Harbour Ferry have special set fares and various payment options.

Te Hunga Whaikaha Total Mobility is a New Zealand central government scheme offering subsided transport to those eligible who may need assistance using regular transport methods.

Concessions

When travelling during off-peak hours a 50% discount applies to your Snapper fare, including concessions.  

Only one concession can be loaded onto your Snapper card at a time. If you qualify for a concession, go to the Snapper website to apply the concession to your Snapper card. 

Apply for a concession button link(external link)

How zones & fares work

Zone-based fares

Fares are calculated based on the number of zones you travel through (including the zone where you start and end your journey) and applying any transfer rules or pass exclusions.

Fare zones

Standard fares are based on geographic fare zones. You can see fare zones by turning on the Fare Zones toggle in the map options on the home page of the website or app. Fare zone is also listed on every stop and station information page on the website and app.

How passes work

Metlink currently offers Snapper 30-day passes for rail or bus, and Day passes for bus and rail that can be purchased with cash or loaded to a Snapper card.

How transfers work

Free transfers only apply to journeys using Snapper, SuperGold card or Day Pass that meet the terms & conditions below. Cash fares are not eligible for free transfers.

Past fare changes and increases